The red squirrels at Formby have had a tough few years.  With harsh winters and an outbreak of the squirrel pox virus, the numbers had fallen so far that the population was almost wiped out.

Seeing them suffer from the infection was heart-breaking, but out of adversity came opportunity and what was so impressive was the way people volunteered to help. Andrew Brockbank, Countryside Manager.

The Sefton Coast woodland stronghold remained but needs your help to sustain red squirrel numbers for the future.  This project currently requires raising £1,600 to plant ½ a hectare of mixed conifers plus £2,400 for fencing to shield the young trees.

Native red squirrel numbers have declined across the UK since the introduction of their grey cousins in the 19th Century.  Grey squirrels prefer the higher calorific food available in deciduous woodland so planting a coniferous habitat helps the red squirrels survive in an area less suitable for greys.

As a charity, the National Trust relies on memberships and public donations to help preserve our heritage for the future.

The future of Formby red squirrels is at your fingertips!  You can make a difference and become a ‘Friend of the Red Squirrels’ today by donating online or texting ‘SQRL01’ plus amount (eg £5) to 70070.

Thank you.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/formby

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.